An envoy to Donald Trump has urged FIFA to consider replacing Iran with Italy at the FIFA World Cup 2026, according to a report by the Financial Times.
US special envoy Paolo Zampolli said it would be a “dream” to see the four-time world champions included in the tournament, which will be hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada, despite Italy failing to qualify after losing a playoff last month.
Zampolli confirmed he raised the idea with Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino, citing Italy’s strong World Cup record. “With four titles, they have the pedigree to justify inclusion,” he told the newspaper.
The Financial Times reported the suggestion was also linked to efforts to ease tensions between Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni following disagreements over the president’s criticism of Pope Leo XIV in relation to the Iran conflict.
Italy missed out on qualification for a third consecutive World Cup after losing on penalties to Bosnia and Herzegovina in their playoff final.
Iran’s participation in the tournament has drawn attention amid the ongoing conflict involving the US and Israel, which began on February 28.
Earlier in April, the Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran said it was in talks with FIFA about relocating Iran’s matches from the United States to Mexico due to security concerns.
However, Infantino told AFP last month that Iran would remain in the tournament and play its matches according to the official draw, indicating no change to the team’s participation.
